Henrik von Eckermann, the Swedish world number one show jumper, experienced a year of both triumphs and setbacks in 2024. He achieved the remarkable feat of winning the World Cup final for the second consecutive year, a first for a Swedish rider. Throughout the year, he maintained his top ranking, accumulating victories in numerous prestigious competitions. His 29 consecutive months at the pinnacle of the world rankings is an unprecedented achievement, far surpassing the previous record. However, the year’s most crucial event, the Paris Olympics, ended in disappointment with a fall from his esteemed horse, King Edward. Towards the year’s end, von Eckermann and King Edward faced further challenges, experiencing disruptions during jump-offs in three consecutive major competitions.
The Paris Olympics likely marked the last championship appearance for the 14-year-old King Edward, though retirement is not imminent. The plan for King Edward’s competitive schedule in 2025 remains uncertain. Initially, von Eckermann’s primary goal was to secure a third consecutive World Cup title. However, the late-year setbacks prompted a shift in strategy. He decided to withdraw King Edward from the indoor season, forgoing the final. The focus now lies in rebuilding the horse’s confidence, prioritizing a gradual return to competition rather than setting long-term goals. Von Eckermann himself remains committed to the spring World Cup final, for which he is directly qualified.
Several potential contenders stand ready to step up in King Edward’s stead. Iliana, also owned by Georg Kähny, boasts a strong track record. Azaria Dinero, owned by the Tovek family and recently added to von Eckermann’s stable, is another possibility. The unpredictable nature of equestrian sports makes definitive decisions difficult. Von Eckermann will finalize his horse selection for the final only after the conclusion of all qualifying events. The European Championships in July are also on the horizon, but participation will hinge on the horses’ form and fitness. Von Eckermann’s philosophy emphasizes competing only at the highest level, prioritizing opportunities for others if peak performance isn’t attainable.
Beyond immediate competitions, von Eckermann constantly nurtures future talent. He understands the necessity of developing younger horses to ensure a continuous supply of top-level competitors. This long-term perspective requires careful planning and strategic competition selection, tailoring events to each horse’s developmental stage. This approach led him to spend several weeks in Mexico with his family and some promising young horses. This provided valuable training time, particularly for Minute Man, a newer addition to his stable, and allowed his wife, Janika Sprunger, to compete concurrently. The location also facilitated closer observation by Minute Man’s owner, Robin Parsky, who also owns Glamour Girl, another horse ridden by von Eckermann. The Mexico trip proved fruitful, fostering a strong connection with Minute Man and hinting at a promising future.
Von Eckermann and Sprunger relocated from Germany to the Netherlands in April 2021, establishing their own farm near Kessel in Limburg. This provides an ideal training environment for their eight horses, ranging in age from eight upwards. Von Eckermann emphasizes a patient and methodical approach with younger horses, dedicating a year to integrating them into his system. Until they reach nine years old, the focus remains solely on training and development, eschewing the pressures of competition. This foundation-building phase is crucial for their long-term success.
Von Eckermann’s success hinges not only on his riding prowess but also on the strong support system he has cultivated. He values the close relationships he has with his horses, recognizing the importance of camaraderie beyond the sporting arena. He is fortunate to be surrounded by genuine, horse-loving individuals who share his passion for the sport and provide unwavering support. These relationships are invaluable in the demanding world of professional show jumping. This holistic approach, combining meticulous training, strategic planning, and strong personal connections, underpins Henrik von Eckermann’s continued dominance in the world of show jumping.
